Scott Kinabalu 2

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Scott Kinabalu 2: Review

β€œA versatile trail running shoe with advanced energy return technology.”

Overview


The Scott Kinabalu 2 is a trail running shoe designed to tackle rugged terrains with ease. This shoe is known for its versatility and technological advancements, making it a reliable choice for trail enthusiasts.

Key Features:

  • eRIDE Kinetic Foam Midsole: Enhances energy return by up to 14%, providing efficient shock absorption and promoting a natural stride.
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Offers lightweight and breathable support, with added protection in the toe area.
  • All-Terrain Outsole: Delivers superior traction and grip on uneven and rugged surfaces.

The Scott Kinabalu 2 is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize energy efficiency and grip for off-road adventures. Its advanced midsole technology offers enhanced energy return, making it suitable for both short and medium-distance runs.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the cheapest 10% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Scott Kinabalu 2


The Scott Kinabalu 2 is celebrated for its versatility and performance on rugged trails. Its eRIDE kinetic foam midsole is a standout feature, providing excellent energy return and shock absorption, which is particularly beneficial for trail runners who tackle uneven terrains. The engineered mesh upper is both lightweight and breathable, ensuring comfort during runs, while the added toe protection is a thoughtful touch for those navigating rocky paths. The outsole's superior traction and grip make it a reliable choice for off-road adventures, offering stability and confidence on various surfaces. However, some might find the shoe's weight slightly heavier compared to other trail options, which could be a consideration for those seeking ultra-lightweight footwear. Overall, the Scott Kinabalu 2 is a solid choice for trail enthusiasts looking for a balance of comfort, protection, and performance. Its advanced features and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to any trail runner's gear.

Updates to Scott Kinabalu 2


The Scott Kinabalu 2 builds upon the foundation of the original Scott Kinabalu model, enhancing its performance with the introduction of the eRIDE kinetic foam midsole. This update offers improved energy return and shock absorption, making it a more efficient choice for trail runners. The engineered mesh upper remains a key feature, providing lightweight breathability while adding extra protection in the toe area. These updates ensure that the Scott Kinabalu 2 continues to deliver reliable performance on rugged terrains.

Comparable Shoes


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The Salomon Speedcross 5 is a popular choice for trail runners seeking aggressive grip and stability. While the Scott Kinabalu 2 offers excellent energy return and cushioning, the Speedcross 5 is known for its superior traction on muddy and soft terrains. Runners who prioritize grip in challenging conditions might prefer the Speedcross 5, while those looking for a balance of cushioning and energy efficiency may lean towards the Kinabalu 2.

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The Hoka Speedgoat 4 is renowned for its cushioning and comfort on long-distance trails. Compared to the Scott Kinabalu 2, the Speedgoat 4 offers a more plush ride, making it suitable for ultra-distance runners. However, the Kinabalu 2's eRIDE kinetic foam midsole provides a more responsive feel, appealing to those who prefer a balance of cushioning and energy return.

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The Brooks Cascadia 15 is a versatile trail shoe known for its stability and protection. While the Scott Kinabalu 2 focuses on energy efficiency and grip, the Cascadia 15 offers a more traditional trail running experience with its protective features. Runners who value stability and durability might find the Cascadia 15 more appealing, while those seeking advanced midsole technology may prefer the Kinabalu 2.

5 Scott Kinabalu 2 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Excellent energy return with eRIDE kinetic foam midsole.
Superior traction and grip on rugged terrains.
Breathable and lightweight engineered mesh upper.

2 Cons

Slightly heavier than some other trail options.
May not suit runners seeking a minimalist design.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Scott Kinabalu 2 is crafted from engineered mesh, providing a lightweight and breathable experience for runners. This design ensures that the shoe remains comfortable during long runs, while the added protection in the toe area offers durability against rough terrains. The tight tongue design enhances support and allows for a more personalized fit, making it suitable for various foot shapes.

Midsole

The midsole of the Scott Kinabalu 2 features the eRIDE kinetic foam, which is designed to enhance energy return by up to 14%. This technology not only provides excellent shock absorption but also promotes a more natural stride, making it ideal for trail runners who need efficient energy use during their runs. The midsole's design is a key factor in the shoe's overall performance, offering a balance of cushioning and responsiveness.

Outsole

The outsole of the Scott Kinabalu 2 is engineered for superior traction and grip on uneven and rugged terrains. This feature is crucial for trail runners who require stability and confidence on various surfaces. The outsole's design ensures that runners can tackle challenging trails without compromising on performance, making it a reliable choice for off-road adventures.

Size/fit

The Scott Kinabalu 2 offers a medium toe box, which provides a comfortable fit for most runners. This design accommodates a range of foot shapes, ensuring that the shoe remains supportive and comfortable during runs. The personalized fit is further enhanced by the tight tongue design, which offers additional support and stability.

Comfort

Comfort is a key aspect of the Scott Kinabalu 2, thanks to its engineered mesh upper and eRIDE kinetic foam midsole. These features work together to provide a breathable and cushioned experience, making the shoe suitable for long runs on rugged terrains. The added toe protection and personalized fit contribute to the overall comfort, ensuring that runners can focus on their performance.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the Scott Kinabalu 2 is provided by the eRIDE kinetic foam midsole, which offers excellent shock absorption and energy return. This feature is particularly beneficial for trail runners who need cushioning to protect against the impact of uneven terrains. The midsole's design ensures that runners can maintain a natural stride while benefiting from enhanced energy efficiency.

Breathability

Breathability is a strong point of the Scott Kinabalu 2, thanks to its engineered mesh upper. This material allows for excellent airflow, keeping the foot cool and comfortable during runs. The breathable design is essential for trail runners who need to maintain comfort over long distances, especially in warmer conditions.

Stability

Stability is a key feature of the Scott Kinabalu 2, with its all-terrain outsole providing reliable grip on various surfaces. The shoe's design ensures that runners can maintain balance and confidence on rugged trails, making it a dependable choice for off-road adventures. The tight tongue and personalized fit further enhance stability, offering support where it's needed most.

Durability

The Scott Kinabalu 2 is designed with durability in mind, featuring a protective toe area and a robust outsole. These elements ensure that the shoe can withstand the demands of trail running, providing long-lasting performance. The durable construction is a significant advantage for runners who frequently tackle challenging terrains.

Grip

Grip is a standout feature of the Scott Kinabalu 2, with its all-terrain outsole offering superior traction on uneven and rugged surfaces. This design is crucial for trail runners who need reliable grip to navigate challenging trails. The outsole's performance ensures that runners can maintain stability and confidence, even on the most demanding terrains.

Flex

The Scott Kinabalu 2 offers a balanced level of flex, allowing for a natural stride while maintaining support and stability. This feature is important for trail runners who need a shoe that can adapt to various terrains without compromising on performance. The shoe's design ensures that runners can move comfortably and efficiently, making it a versatile choice for off-road adventures.

Who should buy the Scott Kinabalu 2?


Trail runners who prioritize energy efficiency and grip will find the Scott Kinabalu 2 to be a valuable addition to their gear. Its advanced eRIDE kinetic foam midsole offers excellent energy return, making it suitable for those who tackle rugged terrains. The shoe's breathable engineered mesh upper ensures comfort during long runs, while the all-terrain outsole provides reliable traction. Runners who appreciate a balance of cushioning and responsiveness will benefit from this model's design.

Who should not buy the Scott Kinabalu 2?


Runners seeking ultra-lightweight footwear might find the Scott Kinabalu 2 slightly heavier than other trail options. Those who prefer a more minimalist design may not appreciate the added protection and cushioning features. If you're looking for a shoe specifically for road running, this trail-focused model may not meet your needs. Consider exploring other models with a lighter build or a more minimalist approach for different running preferences.

Scott Kinabalu 2: What's it good for?


The Scott Kinabalu 2 is well-suited for trail running and off-road adventures, offering excellent grip and stability on rugged terrains. Its advanced midsole technology makes it ideal for short and medium-distance runs, providing efficient energy return and cushioning. The shoe's breathable design ensures comfort during long runs, making it a reliable choice for trail enthusiasts. Runners who enjoy exploring diverse terrains will benefit from the shoe's versatile performance.

5 Scott Kinabalu 2 FAQs


What makes the Scott Kinabalu 2 suitable for trail running?

The Scott Kinabalu 2 is designed for trail running with its all-terrain outsole that provides superior traction and grip on rugged surfaces. Its eRIDE kinetic foam midsole enhances energy return, making it ideal for off-road adventures.

How does the eRIDE kinetic foam midsole benefit runners?

The eRIDE kinetic foam midsole in the Scott Kinabalu 2 offers up to 14% more energy return compared to other compounds, according to the manufacturer, providing efficient shock absorption and promoting a natural stride for trail runners.

Is the Scott Kinabalu 2 breathable?

Yes, the Scott Kinabalu 2 features an engineered mesh upper that ensures breathability, keeping the foot cool and comfortable during long runs.

What type of runner is the Scott Kinabalu 2 designed for?

The Scott Kinabalu 2 is designed for neutral runners who enjoy trail running and seek a balance of cushioning, energy efficiency, and grip on rugged terrains.

How does the Scott Kinabalu 2 compare to the Gore-Tex version?

The Scott Kinabalu 2 Gore-Tex version includes a Gore-Tex membrane for additional protection against cold and moisture, making it suitable for adverse weather conditions. The standard Kinabalu 2 focuses on breathability and lightweight performance.

Scott Kinabalu 2 alternatives

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released
Released
Mar 2018Mar 2018May 2019Nov 2015
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productAthletes
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Jesse ShotlandDamian Hall
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Jeffrey SternPablo Villalobos
Weight
Weight
235 g
M: 204 g
W: 170 g
M: 181 g
W: 142 g
M: 221 g
W: 176 g
215 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
7 mm
M: 18 mm
W: 16 mm
5 mm
8 mm
16 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
3 mm
4 mm
Heel
Heel
11 mm
M: 21 mm
W: 19 mm
5 mm
8 mm
20 mm
Terrain
Terrain
Trail
TrailMudTrailTrailTrailTrail
Brand
Brand
Scott
Inov-8HokaVibramVibramSalomon
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLow dropLightweightLow dropBarefootLightweightLow dropMinimalistZero dropLightweightLow dropZero dropLightweightLow drop
Techs
Techs
VibramVibram
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
Water repellent
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹Vegan β“‹
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Scott Kinabalu 2 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainTrail (+533)
BrandScott (+12)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)Heel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
Events10k (+711)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)
ColorwaysBlack / Dark Grey, Black / Light Grey, Black Moon Blue, Black Mud Green, Blush Pink Dark Purple, Braze Orange Dark Grey, Dark Blue Metal Blue, Dust Beige Dark Grey, Fir Green Dark Blue, Frost Green Coral Pink
Specifications
Model
2

Evolution of the Scott Kinabalu product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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